in fact, intimacy—cultivated by way of foundational trust, loyalty, and support—is centrally important to friendship much as it is with romance. “if it’s a friend or it’s a romantic partner, love is love, but what you individually expect of your love is probably what’s going to define how you experience it.” —dana mcneil, lmft mcneil believes people this is an effect of people becoming more open to looking beyond traditional standards and expectations to create relationship ecosystems that are fulfilling …

“when i first met my husband, he was different and didn’t consider nonsexual physical touch or physical affection a necessity.” the problem plagued her dating history. “mismatched needs for affection and touch are common in relationships,” said mr. jacobs, the therapist. the couple has navigated divergent levels of affection for the duration of their relationship, with mr. lee needing more affection and ms. lee wanting less.

it is important that both partners meet in the middle and constantly adjust to …

intimacy is displayed when two people know and care for each other. before you can work on intimacy in marriage, it’s important to understand the four main types: emotional, intellectual, sexual, and experiential intimacy. but as we get closer and more comfortable with the other individual, that intimacy can die down. with that in mind, one of the best ways to improve intimacy with your spouse is to revel in new experiences. or, you might consider adding a new member …

when you think of intimacy with your partner, there are probably two types that come to mind: sexual and emotional. emotional intimacy is one of the most important types to share with your partner. the overall benefit of intellectual intimacy is being able to share thoughts and opinions that are respected by your partner. one of the most important parts of aesthetic intimacy is learning to appreciate each other’s interests. work intimacy isn’t about your careers — it’s about each …

there are many other lovely ways to feel connected and close to your partner. take into consideration the daily discussions, rituals, and bonding moments you share with your partner on a day-to-day basis. stoke the fires between you by sending each other off warmly with a lingering kiss and a long embrace. when your partner reaches for you, it feels good to be seen and wanted. keep each other’s positive characteristics and attributes in the forefront of your minds. accept …